West Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
201,014
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$43,244/yr
-6.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
100,505
1.9% year-over-year change

West Philadelphia population

How many people live in West Philadelphia

West Philadelphia is home to 201,014 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.5% of West Philadelphia locals are male, and 54.5% are female.

Total population
201,014
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.5%
91,441
Female
54.5%
109,573
Value Percent YoY change
Male 91,441 45.5% -1.1%
Female 109,573 54.5% -0.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in West Philadelphia is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 21.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.1% of the population, while another 18.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
21.4%
25 to 44
30.1%
45 to 64
18.8%
Over 65
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 34,069 17% -3.1%
15 to 24 43,125 21.4% -1.4%
25 to 44 60,583 30.1% 1.4%
45 to 64 37,753 18.8% -1.3%
Over 65 25,483 12.7% -0.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In West Philadelphia, 87.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 17.6% of locals are Caucasian, 68.9% are African American and 5.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 176,455 87.8% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,183 6.1% 2.5%
Non-citizens 12,376 6.2% 6.0%
Racial breakdown
White
17.6%
Black or African American
68.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 35,387 17.6%
Black or African American 138,558 68.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 531 0.3%
Asian 11,695 5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 86 0%
Two or more races 11,671 5.8%
Other 3,086 1.5%

Households in West Philadelphia

A peek inside West Philadelphia households

West Philadelphia has 85,381 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.1% are families, while the remaining 55.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
85,381
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
47,731
Family households
37,651
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 47,731 55.9% 7.8%
Family households 37,651 44.1% -4.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in West Philadelphia

The housing landscape of West Philadelphia

West Philadelphia's housing consists of 100,505 units, with 3.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 53% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
100,505
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,768 3.8%
1 unit, attached 53,257 53%
2 units 8,955 8.9%
3 or 4 units 8,916 8.9%
5 to 9 units 5,072 5%
10 to 19 units 2,188 2.2%
20 to 49 units 3,632 3.6%
50 or more units 14,419 14.4%
Mobile home 225 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 73 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,061
35.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Philadelphia

In West Philadelphia, the median construction year is 1942. About 47.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 47,409 47.2% 3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13,303 13.2% 6.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,119 11.1% -5.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,050 7% -3.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,012 5% -11.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,728 4.7% 10.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,650 2.6% 2.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,876 2.9% 9.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,297 5.3% 3.2%
Built in 2020 or later 1,061 1.1% 35.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

West Philadelphia occupancy rates

Out of the 85,381 occupied housing units in West Philadelphia, 39.3% are owner-occupied, while 60.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
85,381
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
51,807
Owner occupied
33,575
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 51,807 60.7% 4.5%
Owner occupied 33,575 39.3% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.0%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

West Philadelphia housing costs

Housing costs in West Philadelphia come to a median of $1,243 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,364.

Median housing costs per month
$1,243/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in West Philadelphia
$1,364/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in West Philadelphia

West Philadelphia education at a glance

About 37.1% of the population in West Philadelphia went to high school, while 28.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.1% earned an associate degree and 16.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,021 1.9% 0.9%
High school diploma 59,948 37.1% 1.9%
College diploma 45,592 28.2% -5.5%
Associate degree 8,307 5.1% 6.5%
Bachelor's degree 27,002 16.7% 3.8%
Graduate degree 17,711 11% -0.2%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in West Philadelphia

How much people earn in West Philadelphia

The average annual household income in West Philadelphia was $65,719 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $43,244, reflecting a -6.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Philadelphia
$65,719/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Philadelphia
$43,244/year
-6.1% year-over-year change

West Philadelphia income by age

In West Philadelphia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $52,288. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,619 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,794, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,903 in earnings. Overall, 72.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,794 -9.9%
25 - 44 $52,288 1.5%
45 - 64 $50,619 3.5%
Over 65 $29,903 -0.1%
Above poverty level
131,343
Below poverty level
49,914
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 131,343 72.5% -0.0%
Below poverty level 49,914 27.5% -2.6%

Employment in West Philadelphia

Workforce and job types in West Philadelphia

86.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.2% run their own businesses, 60.5% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
77,595
Blue collar
11,853
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 77,595 86.8% 0.3%
Blue collar 11,853 13.2% 2.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.2%
Private companies
60.5%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,620 5.2% 12.1%
Private companies 54,083 60.5% -1.5%
Governmental workers 13,009 14.5% 3.0%
Not for profit companies 17,736 19.8% 2.6%

Transportation in West Philadelphia

How people get around in West Philadelphia

In West Philadelphia, the average commute time is 135 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 60.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 13.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
135 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 39,759 60.9% 2.1%
Taxicab 507 0.8% 0.2%
Bus or trolleybus 13,949 21.4% -2.7%
Railroad 1,156 1.8% 11.7%
Motorcycle 7 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 1,024 1.6% -28.8%
Walk 8,892 13.6% -7.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in West Philadelphia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19104 55,172 21,088 $38,814 $60,764
19131 43,776 19,761 $48,393 $64,918
19139 43,090 18,906 $40,947 $63,685
19143 62,572 28,654 $43,244 $71,396
19151 33,267 13,819 $54,634 $73,910

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FAQs about West Philadelphia demographics 

What is the total population of West Philadelphia?

West Philadelphia has a total population of 201,014 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Philadelphia?

The gender ratio in West Philadelphia is as follows:
  • 45.5% males (91,441 residents)
  • 54.5% females (109,573 residents)

What is the median age in West Philadelphia?

The median age in West Philadelphia is 33.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in West Philadelphia?

The age distribution in West Philadelphia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (34,069 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 21.4% (43,125 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.1% (60,583 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.8% (37,753 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.7% (25,483 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Philadelphia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Philadelphia is as follows:
  • White: 17.6% (35,387 residents)
  • Black or African American: 68.9% (138,558 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (531 residents)
  • Asian: 5.8% (11,695 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (86 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (11,671 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (3,086 residents)

What percentage of the population in West Philadelphia are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.8% of the population in West Philadelphia.

How many housing units are there in West Philadelphia?

There are 100,505 housing units in West Philadelphia, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in West Philadelphia and what is the average household size?

West Philadelphia has a total of 85,381 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Philadelphia?

West Philadelphia has a median household income of $43,244, representing a -6.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for West Philadelphia?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.8% (77,595 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.2% (11,853 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.2% (4,620 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.5% (54,083 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (13,009 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19.8% (17,736 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025